IH issues Drug Alert for Nelson, Castlegar
By Lone Sheep Publishing
In a media release, Interior Heath issued a DRUG ALERT for Nelson and Castlegar with a high risk of overdose.
"Interior Heath has issued a DRUG ALERT for Nelson/Castlegar after a sample containing fluorofentanyl and a benzodiazepine analogue or both was tested at ANKORS," the media release said.
"This is believed to be connected with multiple drug poisoning events in the community. There is a high risk of overdose and a high risk of fatal overdose."
Interior Health said the public should be aware of safer drug use tips that can help prevent overdose as well as where they can access naloxone, drug checking and other overdose prevention services in your community.
Interior Health said the public — no matter what or how the use is (smoking, snorting, injecting) steps should be taken to prevent overdose:
- Check your drugs before using! Whether using take home fentanyl testing strips or accessing FTIR technicians in your area, drug checking can inform you about what is in your drugs.
- Crush your drugs into fine powder: Doing so reduces the chance of hot-spots, which are spikes of concentrated fentanyl in the dope.
- Be a buddy: Help a friend by being around while they are using. Stagger use if you are using together.
- Smoking is not safer than injecting, be cautious when smoking your drugs
- Know the risks when mixing drugs
- When using your substance start with a small amount, and then go slow.
- Know the signs of an overdose and be prepared with naloxone.
- If you must use while alone, consider using the Lifeguard app which can connect you with 911 emergency responders if you overdose. Download at the App Store or Google Play.
